Graduate Placement, Training and Development

Stuff and information on graduate jobs, development and training across the UK from Jonathan Fitchew the charismatic Joint Managing Director of Pareto Law Plc. Hear his thoughts on the past, future and all things new with the graduate jobs market

Tuesday, 20 January 2009

The Government recently announced new internship plans for graduates, which they say will help build skills during the current economic climate.

While some have welcomed this, our concern is that the focus on graduate development doesn’t nearly go far enough. What we are really seeing is the Government finding new ways to massage unemployment figures.

With the credit crunch impacting on jobs in all sectors, we know the problems graduates are facing, but there are jobs out there and our belief is that resources should be spent on helping give you the skills to get them from a much earlier stage.

For example, most geology graduates will not be prospecting for oil; instead they are more likely to be working in a business environment, yet most courses contain no preparation for the world of commerce or management. Why not introduce communications skills modules from the outset or basic business management practice to help equip graduates for the modern world?

At the same time careers advisors need to open their minds to careers such as sales and sales management. In our service-focused economy sales is one of the most important aspects of any business, and offers incredible career potential.

While everyone recognises the value of work experience, don’t think this just has to be in your chosen career path. In the current climate take the opportunities you can – you may not use your degree by working in a shop or factory but you will gain valuable skills in terms of working in teams and general work discipline – skills that will be invaluable throughout your career.

Monday, 15 December 2008

With the Christmas holidays almost upon us many people are getting ready to celebrate with family and friends. But for anyone who is job hunting, use the time wisely and it could put you in a much stronger position in the competitive jobs market.

Review your CV and get an independent viewpoint on how it presents your skills and experience – getting this right is one of the first steps to winning a job, so do take time to refine your CV and really make it work for you.

You should also start preparing for future interviews. Practice interview questions with friends or family – especially tricky ones such as what are your weaknesses?; plan what you will wear – rather than leaving it to the last minute; and revise your own history! – it’s amazing how many people forget key achievements in the pressure of an interview.

In short, don’t let your Christmas holidays go to waste. There are plenty of graduate jobs available, but you need to prepare and practice to give yourself the best chance of winning them.

Friday, 28 November 2008

With competition for top graduate jobs becoming increasingly aggressive, graduates and undergraduates need to start looking after their personal profiles if they are to be in with a chance of landing that perfect job.

CVs need to be attractive to potential employers, who will look for more than just a list of qualifications - no matter how impressive the degree.

How to do it? Get involved with as many extra curricula activities as possible – from joining university clubs and societies to doing voluntary work. This not only looks impressive on a CV, but will provide invaluable life skills that can then be transferred to the world of work.

Relevant work experience should take its place on every CV. Summer jobs, part time work and internships in your chosen field of work will show future employers that you really mean business.

Social networks should also be well maintained. You may not think it, but the contacts you make during your university years could prove crucial to your career after graduation. Stay in touch with any contacts you make during work placements and build upon these relationships wherever possible.

And remember – keep your online social networks clean! Once that incriminating photograph is posted on your FaceBook page, the damage is done so use networking websites wisely.

Thursday, 6 November 2008

Russell Brand and Jonathan Ross have been at the forefront of the media for the phone calls they made to Andrew Sachs. The row has split the country, with one half appalled that their actions could be broadcast, while the other half is confused about what all the fuss is about.

But it all comes down to personality and attitude – Brand and Ross appeal to a group of people who enjoy their edgy sense of humour, but this won’t be favoured by everyone.

In recruitment the different attitudes and approaches of individuals are regularly seen and whether you’re a recent graduate or an experienced employee, whenever you start a new job you’ll be meeting a different group of people that may be unlike others you’ve met or worked with.

A new graduate may say something they think is funny, or dress in a certain way, which may have been right for their university friends, but very wrong in an office environment. Similarly, an employer may expect their new recruit to dress in a certain way, or have a certain attitude to work, which may not suit every personality.

We all know that everyone is different, but if you’re being interviewed or starting a job, or if you’re interviewing and taking on a new recruit, it’s important to open your views and try to see the approach of others to get the most out of it. Opening yourself up to other attitudes can help you and your business, bringing in fresh ideas and creative thinking to help make the most of opportunities in a tough climate.

Monday, 30 June 2008

I have just taken on an intern for the summer and she has shown a great way to fit in on her first day-she came in with a home made mars bar cake...maybe a good tip for grads wanting to make a good impression on day one! Any other ideas out there for how to get your first week off to a flying start?